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Investment opportunities

There are many opportunities for investment within Ards and North Down. The agri-food sector plays a significant role and the borough is at the forefront of innovation in renewable energies. With the largest coastal area in Northern Ireland the borough boasts a wide range of marine, tourism and leisure activities.

Agri Food

The Agri-Food sector plays a significant role in the economy of Northern Ireland. It contributes £1bn per annum of value added and has demonstrated a strong track record of export growth. The NI Government has launched a plan for the Agri-Food industry which aims to create 15,000 jobs over seven years.

Ards and North Down has a vast array of food producers, manufacturers, processors, restaurants and farm shops (ranging from luxury ice cream to New Season Comber Potatoes) that market their high quality products both in Northern Ireland and in export markets. The developing agri-food sector has created considerable local employment and has nurtured a thriving restaurant scene, as a result of which this area has become a desirable food destination.

Renewable energies

Strangford Lough, one of the most dominant physical features in the Ards and North Down area, has long been at the forefront of innovation in renewable energies. The first SeaGen generator was installed in the Strangford Narrows section of the Lough, and subsequently connected to the national grid in July 2008.

Marine, tourism and leisure

Ards and North Down boasts the largest coastal area within Northern Ireland. The coast line offers a wide range of marine activities for visitors, including sailing, fishing, sea angling and water sports.

Creative industries

Ards and North Down is an area recognised as a leading creative region within Northern Ireland; this region realises potential, promotes the economic impact of this growth sector and creates opportunity for investment. Predominant sectors in Ards and North Down are Visual Art, Craft, Performing Art and TV production, including exceptional talent bases and facilities. Our key creative sites include Project 24 NI and Space Bangor.